Framingham Makerspace Gets $101,017 Grant To Expand

FRAMINGHAM, MA—The Baker-Polito Administration recently awarded $1,257,592 million to 20 organizations in eastern Massachusetts to strengthen community-based innovation and entrepreneurship in the Commonwealth’s cities and towns.

The second round of these Collaborative Workspace Program awards, managed by MassDevelopment, will build physical infrastructure to support new entrepreneurial ventures while spurring innovation and job creation at the local level.

Framingham Makerspace got $101,017 to expand its existing space by 3,000 square feet, which will allow for eight studio spaces for artists and entrepreneurs and an expanded shop area. Framingham Makerspace explores the intersection of art, technology, and community by providing space, equipment, classes, and a supportive community that lowers the barriers to making, said the announcement.

“Massachusetts is home to an unrivaled innovation economy that has made us a destination for cutting-edge, world-class companies,” said Governor Charlie Baker in a statement. “These awards will lay a strong foundation for entrepreneurs collaborating to research and develop their ideas and businesses, driving job creation, economic growth and next generation advancements.”

Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash announced the funds at an event at the Fairmount Innovation Lab in Boston, the second in a series of announcements for the Collaborative Workspace Program awards. Secretary Ash previously announced more than $340,000 in funding through the program for seven Western Massachusetts organizations. The awards awards include funding to support fit-out and feasibility work to grow collaborative spaces, innovation centers, maker spaces, artist spaces, collaborative kitchens, and cowork spaces.

The Collaborative Workspace Program provides grants for community-based organizations seeking funding to advance locally-based innovation and entrepreneurship. Collaborative spaces often feature open floor plans, community meeting spaces, and shared tools or equipment with emphasis on common and shared spaces.

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